Menu Close

Articles on Chronic pain

Displaying 1 - 20 of 97 articles

Researchers are working on untangling the neural circuitry of chronic and acute pain. Victor Habbick Visions/Science Photo Library via Getty Images

Chronic pain can be objectively measured using brain signals – new research

Pain has long been subjectively measured, leading to frustrations for patients and doctors alike. Identifying neural biomarkers of pain could improve diagnosis and lead to better treatments of chronic pain conditions.
Even though chronic pain is recognized by scientists as a disease in its own right, it remains largely under-recognized, under-diagnosed and, above all, subject to many prejudices. (Shutterstock)

Chronic pain: An invisible disease whose sufferers are unfairly stigmatized

Although chronic pain is recognized by scientists as a disease in its own right, it remains largely under-recognized, under-diagnosed and, above all, associated with numerous prejudices.
The cannabis plant produces both THC – the psychoactive component in marijuana – and the compound commonly known as CBD, which does not lead to a ‘high.’ Jena Ardell/Moment via Getty Images

Cannabis holds promise for pain management, reducing the need for opioid painkillers – a neuropharmacology expert explains how

Studies suggest that marijuana and CBD use might help relieve chronic pain while also reducing a patient’s need for opioids.
A variety of pain-relieving drugs are available both over the counter and by prescription. SelectStock/Vetta via Getty Images

How do painkillers actually kill pain? From ibuprofen to fentanyl, it’s about meeting the pain where it’s at

Different painkillers provide relief in different ways. The most effective medication is the one that best targets the type of pain you’re experiencing with minimal side effects.
Because of stigma and deeply rooted implicit bias, people who suffer chronic and unexplained pains are often characterized as complainers, malingerers and drug-seekers. (Shutterstock)

Why stress-related illness is so hard to diagnose, and how a patient-centred playful approach can help

Psychosocial and economic stressors can affect health, but neither our doctors nor our health-care system have the tools to integrate these factors into diagnoses or care. Play offers an alternative.
Despite the prevalence of endometriosis, people often live with pain and other symptoms for years before being diagnosed. (Shutterstock)

Endometriosis: How advocacy, awareness and algorithms could shorten the long wait for diagnosis and treatment

People living with endometriosis wait an average of 7.5 years for a diagnosis. Social science researchers are working to identify ways to help reduce this timeline.
The concept of placebos – which are sometimes called “sugar pills” – has been around since the 1800s. Wladimir Bulgar/Science Photo Library via Getty Images

In research studies and in real life, placebos have a powerful healing effect on the body and mind

Drug manufacturers often shun the use of placebos in clinical trials. But research suggests that placebos could play an important role in the treatment of depression, pain and other maladies.

Top contributors

More